If you crave a sweet and warm treat, you’re in the right place. Our Cinnamon Sugar Baked Pumpkin Donuts are easy to make and bursting with fall flavor. With a soft texture and a delicious sugar coating, these donuts will have you reaching for seconds. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, let me guide you through the simple steps to create these irresistible donuts that everyone will love!
Ingredients
To create these amazing cinnamon sugar baked pumpkin donuts, gather your essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making these treats so tasty.
List of Essential Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
These ingredients blend to give you soft, moist donuts with a warm, spiced flavor. The pumpkin puree adds richness, while the spices create that cozy autumn vibe. The cinnamon sugar topping is a delightful way to finish them off. You will love how each bite tastes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Donut Batter
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your donut pan with non-stick spray. This helps the donuts come out easily.
Next, grab a mixing bowl. In it, whisk together these dry ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix them well until you see no lumps. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients until smooth:
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Slowly add the wet mix to the dry mix. Stir gently. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the donuts light and fluffy.
Baking the Donuts
Now, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise.
Bake your donuts for 10-12 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready.
Coating the Donuts
While the donuts bake, prepare the cinnamon sugar topping. In a shallow bowl, mix together:
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
After baking, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
While they are still warm, gently roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Make sure each donut is well coated. Enjoy your fresh pumpkin donuts warm or at room temperature!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Donut Texture
To get the best texture, mix your dry ingredients well. This helps the baking powder and soda spread evenly. When you add the wet mix, stir just enough to blend. Overmixing makes donuts tough. You want them soft and fluffy.
Baking temperature matters. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat cooks the donuts just right. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Test doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready!
Flavor Enhancements
Want to boost flavor? Try adding a pinch of allspice or cloves. These spices mix well with pumpkin. You can also add a splash of maple syrup for sweetness.
Using fresh pumpkin is great, but canned puree works fine too. Canned pumpkin is smooth and easy. Fresh can have a richer taste, but it needs cooking first. Choose what fits your time and taste.
Presentation Ideas
How you serve your donuts can make them more fun. Stack them on a plate. Sprinkle some extra cinnamon sugar on top for flair.
Pair your donuts with a warm drink like coffee or cider. They match well and make a cozy treat. For toppings, consider a drizzle of chocolate or cream cheese frosting. Enjoy creating your perfect donut experience!
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
You can make these donuts gluten-free. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur work well. Keep in mind, gluten-free flour can absorb more liquid. You may need to adjust the wet ingredients slightly to keep the batter moist. Add a bit more pumpkin puree or buttermilk if needed. This small change ensures your donuts stay light and fluffy.
Different Flavor Profiles
Want to play with flavors? You can add chocolate chips or nuts for a fun twist. Dark chocolate chips create a nice contrast with pumpkin. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch. For seasonal variations, try mixing in apple chunks or caramel. You can even blend in some maple syrup for a rich taste. These additions keep the recipe fresh and exciting.
Mini vs. Regular Donuts
Mini donuts are cute and fun! If you choose this size, reduce the bake time. Bake mini donuts for about 8-10 minutes. Always check with a toothpick to be sure they are done. If you make regular-sized donuts, follow the original bake time of 10-12 minutes. Think about how you plan to serve them. Mini donuts are perfect for parties. Regular donuts are great for a cozy, family treat.
Storage Info
Best Storage Methods
To keep your cinnamon sugar baked pumpkin donuts fresh, store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container to prevent drying. They will stay good for about two days. For longer storage, consider refrigeration. Wrap each donut in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a sealed bag. This keeps them moist and fresh for up to a week.
Freezing Donuts
If you want to save some donuts for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the donuts cool completely. Next, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for about three months. When you want to eat them, take out a donut and let it thaw at room temperature.
To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This makes the donut soft and warm again. Enjoy your delicious treat anytime!
FAQs
How long do these donuts last?
These donuts stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container. If you refrigerate them, they last up to a week. Make sure to wrap them well to keep them moist.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the batter ahead. Just mix it and cover it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps the batter warm up and rise better.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1/4 cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. You can also use plain yogurt or sour cream. Just thin them with a little water to get the right consistency.
You now have the tools to make delicious pumpkin donuts at home. We covered the key ingredients and shared step-by-step instructions for baking and coating. I provided tips to enhance flavor and texture, and we explored fun variations to try. Remember, storage and reheating are easy so you can enjoy them later. With these methods, you can bake impressively tasty donuts and share them happily. Dive in and enjoy your homemade treats!
